An Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf

This is an Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf that combines Ground Beef and Ground Sausage.

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef1/2 lb. ground mild Italian sausage1 small onion, finely chopped1/2 C. chopped bell pepper (I used orange, it was all I had in the freezer)1 tsp. olive oil1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce1 clove garlic, minced1/2 tsp. oregano1/2 tsp. basil1/2 tsp. parsley1 egg, beaten3/4 C. Italian bread crumbs2 slices white bread, crumbled1 T. milk8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese, reserve 3/4 C. for topping1/4 C. parmesan cheese1 C. marinara sauce, plus 1/2 -3/4 C. more for topping

How to make it

In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over med. high heat and sauté the onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes, remove from heat. In a large bowl, add the meats, onion and peppers along with all remaining ingredients reserving 3/4 C. mozzarella cheese for topping. Now, dive in there with the best tools God gave you, your hands and combine everything really good. Once it has all come together, place and mold the mixture in a baking dish of your choice. I used my oval Portuguese stoneware for ours. Spoon 1/2 to 3/4 C. of the marinara sauce on top and spread around. Place in a 400 degree oven for 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle a little dry basil over the top. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes. Make sure the meat is not pink before serving, baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your loaf. Mine was about 2″ thick.